Cologne

With an extravagant gothic skyline and centuries of history, it is no wonder that the city of Cologne – or Köln to the Germans – is hailed as one of Europe's urban jewels. First settled by locals over 2000 years ago, the arrival of the Romans soon afterwards brought about rapid expansion and modernisation. Today, this city beside the River Rhine has been transformed it into a nucleus of trade and culture, and the list of must-sees are seemingly endless. Cologne Cathedral is the largest gothic church in Europe and Germany's most visited landmark. Alongside remnants of the ancient Roman walls, you'll find a huge collection of modern masterpieces by pop artists Andy Warhol and Roy Lichtenstein at the revered Ludwig Museum. Cologne's traditional German magnetisms include romantic boat rides up the river Rhine, a gorgeous harbour-side Chocolate Museum located near the old town and of course scores of Christmas markets that pop up over the Advent season.